Russian diesel-electric submarines have been observed with improvised counter-drone defenses at a naval base in Kronstadt near Saint Petersburg, reflecting the growing concern of Russian forces over Ukrainian unmanned threats.
Imagery analyzed by OSINT researcher H I Sutton and reported by shows Project 06363 Mozhaysk (B-608) and Project 877EKM Dmitrov (B-806) fitted with protective modifications. These include metal lattice “cage armor” structures mounted on the sail, likely intended to shield sensitive components such as periscopes, antennas and snorkels from drone strikes.
Such systems are critical when submarines operate at periscope depth, and even minor damage from small drones could significantly degrade their effectiveness.
Additional changes include the apparent installation of a heavy machine gun, likely a 12.7 mm NSV Utyos, and a mounted searchlight. These additions suggest an effort to provide limited self-defense against low-flying drones, particularly when surfaced or in port.
The surrounding harbor also appears to feature floating barriers, indicating concern over uncrewed surface vessel threats. Analysts say this layered approach points to a broader effort to counter both aerial and maritime unmanned systems.
The modifications mark one of the first visible instances of Russian submarines being adapted specifically for counter-drone protection. Similar improvised measures have previously been reported on other Russian naval and ground platforms, including the use of ad hoc armor on vehicles.
The presence of these defenses in the Baltic region suggests that concerns over Ukrainian drone capabilities are expanding beyond the Black Sea, influencing force protection measures across multiple Russian naval bases.
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